If you love exploring new flavors, Dallas offers some of the best annual events in Texas that celebrate food and drink. Whether you enjoy local barbecue, international cuisine, or creative culinary pairings, you can find food festivals in Dallas that fit your taste and schedule. Many of these gatherings feature live music, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to meet talented chefs.
This guide walks you through some of the most anticipated culinary events Dallas will host in 2025, with details on dates, locations, and what you can expect. If you are looking for things to do in Dallas this weekend or planning your calendar for the year, these are worth adding to your list.
Dallas Whiskey Riot – March 15
Kicking off the spring season, Whiskey Riot returns to Fair Park with over 200 varieties to sample. This traveling whiskey festival is known for its tasting glass you can take home, along with cocktails from featured brands like Milam & Greene and Von Payne Whiskey.
If you are curious about whiskey or already a fan, this is one of the culinary events Dallas offers that blends education with enjoyment. General admission is $90 and includes unlimited samples during the event hours.
Texas Tastemakers Festival – March 22
Held in downtown Celina, the Texas Tastemakers Festival highlights the best of Texas cuisine and craft beverages. Participating restaurants include Hutchins BBQ, OMG Tacos, and Mangiamo Italian Market & Deli, while drinks are served by local distilleries and breweries.
You can choose from different ticket options depending on whether you want food only, drinks only, or both. With live music, a VIP lounge, and a People’s Choice Award for favorite dish, it is an easy day trip for anyone seeking food festivals in Dallas and the surrounding area.
Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival – April 3–6
This multi-day festival features themed events like Tacos + Tequila, Burgers, Brews + Blues, and Rise + Dine brunch. Top chefs from across the region prepare creative dishes, paired with wines, craft beers, and spirits.
If you want to experience one of the best annual events in Dallas-Fort Worth, this is a must. Tickets are sold per event, so you can choose based on your preferred cuisine or attend several for the full experience.
Eataly Pizza Fest – April 6
Pizza fans will appreciate this new addition to the Dallas food scene. Eataly’s Pizza Fest brings more than 30 pizzerias to NorthPark Center, serving everything from Neapolitan to New Haven-style pies.
Workshops, live music, and guest appearances from the U.S. Pizza Team make it a family-friendly outing. Unlimited tasting stations and beverage pairings are included with general admission, making it one of the more interactive culinary events Dallas has planned.
Fort Worth Stockyards & Syndicate Smokedown – April 12
If you enjoy barbecue competitions, this event combines pitmaster skills with live music. Categories include ribs, chicken, and brisket, with champions crowned in each.
Sampling is available until supplies run out, so early arrival is recommended. It is one of the things to do in Dallas this weekend if you are open to crossing into Fort Worth for award-worthy barbecue.
Taste Addison – April 25–27
Taste Addison marks its 30th anniversary with a mix of restaurant stalls, food trucks, and beverage areas like the Corkyard and Beer Lawn. This year’s timing in April offers cooler weather, making it more comfortable to explore.
Along with dining, there is a Sip & Stroll Art Walk and a carnival for families. It is one of the best annual events in Dallas County, especially for those who want to pair local eats with entertainment.
Savor – May 1–4
Hosted at Omni PGA Frisco Resort, Savor blends fine dining with golf and live music. Chefs from the Food Network, including Aarón Sánchez and Stephanie Izard, will prepare dishes during themed dinners and receptions.
Highlights include the Fork & Fire live-fire cooking event and a Margaritas & Mariachis brunch. While it is on the higher end for ticket prices, it offers a luxury festival experience you will not find at most other food festivals in Dallas.
Lone Star Smokeout – May 2–4
Making its Texas debut, the Lone Star Smokeout will take place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Expect a lineup of Texas barbecue favorites along with country music headliners like Cody Jinks and Jon Pardi.
This is one of the culinary events Dallas-area residents will appreciate if they enjoy large-scale gatherings with both food and live performances. Retail pop-ups and artisan booths make it more than just a barbecue festival.
Tips for making the most of Dallas food festivals
Buy tickets early – Many of these festivals sell out, especially those with limited tastings or VIP access.
Plan your transportation – Some venues are downtown with limited parking, so rideshares or public transit may be easier.
Come hungry but pace yourself – With so many samples, you will want to try a little of everything without filling up too fast.
Bring a reusable water bottle – Staying hydrated helps you enjoy more food without feeling sluggish.
Check the weather – Many culinary events Dallas hosts are outdoors, so dress accordingly.
Final thoughts
Food festivals in Dallas are more than one-off events. They are annual traditions that bring together communities, highlight culinary talent, and offer unique ways to spend your weekends. Mark your calendar for the best annual events in Dallas and enjoy the flavors the city has to offer.
If you want to explore even more of the city’s food culture beyond these festivals, consider booking a tour with Incloodie Food Tour. It is a fun and guided way to taste hidden gems, meet local chefs, and experience Dallas through its most delicious spots.